The 2024 Workwear and Safety Awards showed off innovative boots, gloves, jackets, pants, and more. Because of silicon dust requirements, we also include good lighting, work lights, and vacuums in this category. To say we’ve seen innovations abound in these categories would be a huge understatement!
The 2024 Workwear and Safety Awards may not garner the media coverage of the latest power tools, but we know the truth—you simply can’t work without these products.
Winner – Area Lighting
Ridgid R86903 18V 360 Degree Area Light
What they said:
The RIDGID R86903 18V 360° LED Area Light delivers 2,000 lumens from clear white LEDs to illuminate your area. RIDGID Clear White LEDs consistently provide clear white light providing users visibility of fine details and accurate colors. The area light features three brightness settings with three directional modes with up to 18 hours of runtime on low setting (using an AC840060 18V 6.0Ah MAX Output Battery). Built for the everyday jobsite conditions, this durable light is IP54 rated water and dust resistant.
For optimized user control and versatility, this tool can provide 360°, 180° (front only), or 180° (rear only) illumination. For hands free operation, the area light can be hung from its integrated hanging hook or mounted on universal tripod stands (1/4 in.-20 thread). The USB-A and USB-C charging ports allow you to charge your small mobile devices anywhere you go. As always, this RIDGID 18V 360° LED Area Light is 100% compatible with all RIDGID 18V batteries. This tool is backed by the Industry’s Best Lifetime Service Agreement, simply register within 90 days of purchase for FREE Parts, FREE Service, FOR LIFE. The R86903 includes the 360° LED Area Light. Batteries and charger sold separately.
What we say:
We like the Ridgid R86903 18V 360° LED area light for its bright 2,000 lumen output and the multiple ways you can use it to light an area. It features three brightness settings and three directional modes (360°, front-only, rear-only). You can get up to 18 hours of runtime on Low when using a 6.0Ah battery. It also features an IP54 rating for water and dust resistance and includes USB-A and USB-C ports for charging external devices like a smartphone.
Price: $129
For more information, click here.
Winner – Commercial Site Lighting
Milwaukee MXF040-1XC MX FUEL™ ROCKET™ Dual Power Compact Tower Light
What they said:
Our MX FUEL™ ROCKET™ Dual Power Compact Tower Light is our most power-dense tower light, delivering exceptional site lighting capabilities in a compact size. The unit delivers up to 15,000 lumens of task and area lighting. It covers over 2,300 sq ft and provides over 5X the usable lighting of an M18 ROCKET™ Dual Power Tower Light. The Compact Tower Light provides maximum portability, requiring 75% less space to store and transport than the MX FUEL™ ROCKET™ Tower Light/Charger.
The impact-resistant molded base connects with the MILWAUKEE® PACKOUT™ Modular Storage System via integrated locking cleats for unmatched portability on the jobsite. It features an oversized carry handle and is under 50lbs with the kitted MX FUEL™ REDLITHIUM™ XC406 Battery. When powered with the kitted battery, the unit runs up to 3 hours on high or up to 10 hours on low, for powerful lighting without cords or generators. The Dual Power feature allows users to plug in for all-day use.
The 7’ folding mast can be quickly deployed in seconds. The Compact Tower Light has 2 deployable outriggers for increased stability and use on uneven terrains. The unit is not only portable and fast to set-up but also durable, featuring an IP56 Rating for water and dust protection, making it capable for use both indoors and out. The included ONE-KEY™ Bluetooth Card gives you the ability to remove, replace, or upgrade connectivity over the life of your machine. Fully compatible with our MX FUEL™ Equipment System.
What we say:
The Milwaukee MX Fuel Rocket compact tower light offers dual power modes, so you can plug it into 120V AC power or use any MX battery. Amazingly, it outputs up to 15,000 lumens—enough to cover over 2,300 sq ft. Its also 75% smaller than the standard MX Fuel Rocket Tower Light/Charger. Featuring a 7’ deployable mast, impact-resistant base, and IP56 water and dust protection, it’s ideal for both indoor and outdoor use. The light runs for up to 3 hours on High (15k lumens), 6 hours on Medium (8k lumens), or 10 hours on Low (5k lumens) using an MX Fuel XC406 battery.
Price: $1,999
For more information, click here.
Winner – Flashlights
Police Security Flashlights Twin Power 2000 Lumen Flashlight
What they said:
Police Security’s Twin Power® Flashlight. With the touch of a button, users can toggle between a built-in rechargeable battery for primary power and alkaline batteries for backup power.
Unlike traditional dual-power flashlights, which require multiple cartridges, the Twin Power flashlight operates with a single cartridge, housing both built-in rechargeable and alkaline batteries. Battery level indicators show how much power is left, ensuring users are never left without power. This Patent-Pending technology allows the ultimate choice of power.
Twin Power was launched at the 2024 National Hardware Show, where it won the Retailers’ Choice Award for innovation and has since been placed in Lowe’s, Menard’s, ACE Hardware, True Value, Mid-States, Advanced Auto and AutoZone.
What we say:
Police Security has one of the most voluminous selections of flashlights and headlamps you will find. The Twin Power 2000 lumen flashlight, however, offers both high-lumen output and an almost inexhaustible runtime. The problem with rechargeable lithium-ion batteries is that they eventually need recharging. When you’re away from an outlet—or simply need light right then and there—this presents a real problem. Having a backup set of alkaline batteries in the same tool makes this one of the most forward-thinking flashlights money can buy.
Price: $80
For more information, click here.
Winner – Portable Work Lights
RYOBI PCL691 Tripower Tripod Tower Light
What they said:
The RYOBI TriPOWER Tripod LED Light provides a powerful 3,800 lumens, making it the brightest RYOBI light to date. Customize your lighting needs with a detachable 360º LED Light featuring 4 brightness modes (high, medium, low & single panel) & 4 individually adjustable panels. Continue work all day with over 25 hours of runtime using the 360º LED Light (using a 40V 6Ah battery on single panel mode). When this light is detached from the tripod, the 2-by capable handle & folding hanging hook make hands-free lighting a breeze. With an adjustable tripod height of up to 7’ & a 135º pivoting head, tailor your light or tool placement to your needs. The collapsible legs with handles allow for easy storage & transportation.
TriPOWER technology powers this tripod with any 18V ONE+ battery, 40V battery, or extension cord. With the tripod’s 18V ONE+ Tool Mount, easily interchange RYOBI ONE+ lifestyle & recreation products, ensuring versatile compatibility for a unified system experience. Use the Tripod with the ONE+ 360º LED Light or pair with other compatible lighting, audio & air movement products (see full compatibility list for more details). The 360º LED Light is part of the RYOBI ONE+ system, where any 18V ONE+ battery works with any 18V ONE+ product. This TriPOWER Tripod and 18V ONE+ 360º LED Light are backed by the RYOBI 3-year manufacturer’s warranty.
What we say:
Tower lights are essential tools for working where you don’t have enough natural light or power. This particular light includes a ONE+ tool mount that lets you remove the light and set it on the ground or hang it from a wall. You can also affix nearly any lifestyle product to the tripod, including radios, small fans, and more. Beyond that, Ryobi steps up its game with the PCL691 Tripod Tower Light by letting you run the system off either 18V batteries, 40V batteries, or an extension cord. This gives everyone tons of options for lighting up their workshop, jobsite, or garage. It’s a feature we’re excited to see on this and other applicable Ryobi tools and products.
Price: $199
For more information, click here.
Finalist
Winner – Task Lighting
RIDGID Locking LED Cuff
What they said:
The new RIDGID Locking LED Cuff Accessories feature a built-in LED light designed to provide a clear, visible path to the surfaces being cleaned. This innovative accessory is attachable to most ring-shaped RIDGID accessories, turning them into a lighted accessory. The LED cuff can be attached to a wand or hose on one end and used either alone or with an accessory tool, offering users a range of flexible use options to illuminate surfaces. You can attach an accessory to the cuff’s front end where the LED lights are facing.
It has a beam distance of 42 feet to help tackle cleanups even without electricity and in dimly lit areas in job sites or different home spaces. The LED Cuff is battery-operated, includes 3 AAA batteries, and it is easily switched on with a click of the orange button. With a 10+ hour runtime, the LED Cuff can be used for long periods of time. Secure locking tabs keep the cuff connected to the hose/wand and to the accessory. Choose between the 2-1/2 in. diameter size or the 1-7/8 in. diameter size to fit your accessories and wet/dry vac.
What we say:
As part of a general expansion of Ridgid vacuum accessories, the Locking LED Cuff delivers something we’ve never before seen in a wet/dry vac—an integrated light to shine right where you’re vacuuming. While uprights and hand vacs have had this for years, the nature of using a flexible hose doesn’t lend itself to adding a light—until now. Ridgid really outdid itself, and the fact that the light operates off three AAA batteries (included!) and runs for up to 10 hours makes this a truly useful addition to any compatible Ridgid Wet/Dry vac with either a 2-1/2 inch or 1-7/8 inch hose.
Price: $25
For more information, click here.
Winner – Tethering & Fall Protection
Guardian B7-Comfort Tower Climbing Harness
What they said:
For Tower Climbers and workers at height for extended periods, the B7-Comfort Tower Climbing Harness is the ideal body wear solution. With the unique integrated hip O-Ring design, a robust 3” sub-pelvic strap, and a replaceable aluminum-based adjustable seat sling, the B7-Comfort Tower was designed for superior mobility, climbability, and comfort when climbing and positioning at height all day.
The B7-Comfort Tower Climbing Harness also incorporates all of the standard features found on the B7-Comfort, including – but not limited to – patent-pending DiaLock Torso Adjusters, patent-pending adjustable shoulder and waist pads, patent-pending integrated trauma strap leg pads, Twiceme Technology’s® Helping the Helper® Technology, all aluminum hardware and premium comfort materials. With countless innovations built around comfort and mobility, the B7-Comfort Tower Climbing Harness is the perfect choice for Tower Climbers.
What we say:
When you climb, you need solid, reliable protection plus a comfortable fit so you can focus on the job and not on adjusting your gear to alleviate pressure points. We like the O-Ring hip design, which gives you integrated torso and leg support with wide-open mobility. The padded seat sling is replaceable and includes 6-inches of adjustability. All the hardware is durable, lightweight aircraft-grade aluminum that won’t weigh you down. Finally, we like the wear-indicated webbing, which reveals a red inner core when it’s damaged or worn.
Price: $775
For more information, click here.
Winner – Vacuum Accessories
RIDGID NXT Max Locking Accessories
What they said:
Customize projects with industry-first RIDGID NXT Max Locking Accessories that increase heavy-duty cleaning productivity with Swap. Lock. Clean system. Unlock your wet/dry vacuum’s full potential with the new RIDGID® NXT® Max Locking Accessories created by RIDGID for 2-1/2 in. wet/dry Vacs to adapt to your heavy-duty cleaning needs. NXT Accessories are part of a swap and lock attachment system that works in three simple steps: Step 1 – Pick your NXT Max Accessory; Step 2 – Pick your NXT Shoe; Step 3 – Snap your shoe into place. This customization enhances productivity, performance, and ergonomics for a flexible and optimized cleaning experience.
This new customizable and versatile accessory line includes 2 ½ in. diameter accessories, which are ideal for heavy-duty, wet/dry shop vacs and cleanup. The accessories in the system are a utility nozzle, floor tool, car nozzle, crevice tool and rotating dusting brush. Each of these accessories can be paired with a swappable shoe designed to clean different surfaces and debris types. NXT Shoes available for each accessory vary by model and include: a hard bristle shoe that agitates to remove difficult debris; a soft bristle shoe for delicate cleaning of surfaces; a soft rubber shoe to remove pet fur and fibers from surfaces; a wet shoe to squeegee water away from hard surfaces; and an inner bristle shoe for focused debris capture on hard or carpeted surfaces.
What we say:
It’s been a while since we’ve seen anything truly innovative in the area of vacuum accessories. Ridgid took everything they had for their NXT wet/dry vacuum accessories and upgraded them with new features. From swappable shoes to new squeegees and inner-bristle nozzle brushes and adapters that actually help you collect debris instead of spreading it around. With options for hard and soft bristles and storage solutions that let you keep everything right on-vac, this system truly impressed our judges. The best part is you can grab exactly what you need right where Ridgid vacs are sold.
Price: $11–$25
For more information, click here.
Winner – Shop Vacuums
RYOBI PCL732 18V ONE+ 5 Gallon Bucket Top Wet/Dry Vac
What they said:
The RYOBI 18V ONE+ Bucket Top Wet/Dry Vacuum is the industry’s most powerful bucket top vacuum for wet and dry debris. Experience the freedom of cordless portability as you effortlessly convert most 5 gallon buckets into a wet/dry vacuum. Its integrated storage design ensures easy access and organization for the included hose and crevice tool, allowing you to swiftly tackle any cleaning task. Equipped with a 4’ hose, this vacuum provides flexible reach, while the crevice tool enables cleaning in tight, hard-to-reach spaces. The added blower port enhances versatility, offering the functionality of two tools in one.
Weighing only 4.25 lbs. this lightweight wet/dry vacuum makes it easy to clean up around your car, workshop, and more. The included filter bag protects the vacuum motor from dry debris, ensuring lasting performance. Plus, additional filter bags (A32RF09) and replacement accessories (A32BT01) are available online for your convenience. Best of all, it is part of the RYOBI ONE+ system where any 18V ONE+ battery works with any 18V ONE+ product. This 18V ONE+ Bucket Top Wet/Dry Vacuum is backed by the RYOBI 3-Year Manufacturer’s Warranty and includes a 4’ x 1-1/4” Hose, Crevice Tool, Filter Bag and Operator’s Manual. Battery and charger sold separately.
What we say:
Got a 5-gallon bucket handy? Now, you have the container for the handy Ryobi Bucket Top Wet/Dry Vac. Powered by any 18V One+ battery, this little 4.25-pound topper instantly converts the most ubiquitous thing in your workshop or garage to a wet/dry vac. Use it for quick pickups with the included filter, or remove it for wet jobs like clearing out your AC drain line. This is a great solution for quick jobs that don’t demand a heavier-duty unit or lots of hose length. Instead, grab the bucket by its existing handle and take the vacuum right where you need it.
Price: $60
For more information, click here.
Winner – Boots
Timberland PRO Boondock 8 Inch BOA
What they said:
This year, Timberland Pro is set to launch its first footwear in collaboration with BOA® Technology, including the new BOA-powered version of the Men’s 8 inch Boondock designed for heavy duty outdoor work, construction and heavy equipment. The BOA® Fit System Dual Dial configuration provides targeted, independent adjustments to both the ankle and forefoot zone of the boot, allowing workers to customize their fit, accommodate foot swelling, and enhance overall efficiency during long shifts.
Offering rugged impact protection, the innovative BOA dial platforms feature a bayonet design engineered to release the dial cartridge under heavy impact, preventing catastrophic damage. If dislodged, the dial cartridge can be instantly reinserted, restoring functionality and enabling workers to continue their tasks without interruption. The BOA Fit System also keeps both lace ends firmly locked within the dial cartridge, guaranteeing workers remain securely tied and fully focused, enhancing both safety and productivity on the job, while the patented fast release allows workers to instantly release lace tension with a quick pull-up motion, making it fast and effortless to step in and out of footwear during shifts.
Each BOA Fit System is made of three integral parts: the dial adjusts fit with precision and allows for fast release, the lightweight, strong lace that is expertly configured for performance, and low friction lace guides that ensure a smooth uniform fit every time.
What we say:
Boots with the BOA system for quickly tightening and releasing their stainless steel laces aren’t new. However, Timberland PRO does something unusual with its Boondock 8-inch BOA boots. They added two BOA dials to separate the ankle from the forefoot zone. This lets wearers relieve foot stress at the metatarsals while securing their feet at the ankles. Both BOA dials also feature a design that lets them detach temporarily under heavy impact, protecting the wearer. These look like excellent boots, and the price makes them an innovative value as well.
Price: $250
For more information, click here.
Winner – Gloves
Gorilla Grip 22857 Large Performance Grip Work Gloves
What they said:
Delivering uncompromised performance and versatility, Gorilla Grip Performance Grip work gloves combine form, function, and fit for jobs that require enhanced dexterity. Designed to fit like athletic gloves, these durable work gloves feature a 4-way stretch back that naturally fits to the hand. The grip-enhanced performance palm lets you confidently handle everything from large power tools to small parts requiring precision and dexterity. Available in sizes Medium, Large, and Extra Large.
What we say:
When it comes to innovative gloves, we look for comfort and features. The textured grip on the Performance Grip gloves by Gorilla Grip truly lives up to its name, letting you securely hold tools at height and confidently deal with materials. These gloves let you continue to take calls and send texts using your index finger without having to remove them, and a nice stretch cuff makes them easy to pull on and off. For the price, everyone should pick up a few pairs of these machine-washable gloves.
Price: $12
For more information, click here.
Winner – Hard Hats
Klein Tools 60821 Hard Hat Turbo Fan
What they said:
Klein Tools Hard Hat Turbo Fan (60821) is an innovative solution designed to fit on the brim of most hard hats and safety helmets. It includes a dual-mount strap and mounting bracket for use on brimless shells. The Hinged Adapter Bracket seamlessly attaches onto the accessory mounts of Klein Tools hard hats and safety helmets, while the dual-mount strap accommodates hard hats without mounts.
Powered by Klein’s Modular Battery (Cat. No. 29025), the Turbo Fan offers a compact, lightweight, and low-profile design with quiet operation, ensuring long-term comfort. It features three selectable modes with impressive run times: 12 hours on low, 8 hours on high, and 6 hours on turbo. The adjustable vent directs airflow either down towards the neck area or up under the shell for optimal cooling. The hinged bracket allows the fan to retract into a storage position when not in use or extend to the desired cooling position on brimless shells. Additionally, the dual USB port battery enables the addition of an extra cooling fan (Cat. No. 60822) for enhanced cooling. The package includes a rechargeable battery, USB-A to USB-C charging cable, hinged bracket, and dual-mount strap, making it a versatile and essential accessory for any job site.
What we say:
Klein has really expanded their hard hat offerings over the past few years, and they continue to innovate. This time, it’s keeping you cool on the jobsite without compromising safety. Their Hard Hat Turbo Fan runs for up to 8 hours on Medium (12 hours on Low and 6 hours on Turbo). It fits on either Klein Tools safety helmets using the front/back mount or on other brands via secure metal clips that grab the brim and the included strap. With a dual-port USB battery, you can even add up to two fans if you want!
Price: $70
For more information, click here.
Winner – Hats & Beanies
Milwaukee 48-73-1063 Snapback Bump Cap
What they said:
Our Snapback Bump Cap has a larger foam liner for more side protection. The comfortable foam provides top protection from minor head injuries like bumps and scrapes when working in tight spaces. The lightweight mesh hat partnered with our breathable fitted shell has ventilation holes to help keep your head cool while working. Our Snapback Bump Cap is the perfect combination of style and comfort for everyday wear. The hat features a stylish hook and loop patch for easy customization. The snap back closure method along with the unique shell design provides a better fit for a variety of head sizes and shapes.
What we say:
Milwaukee designed a simple but stylish hat that looks good while providing basic bump protection for use in areas where a hard hat is overkill. It also has nice features like a front hook-and-loop patch that you can affix your own patch to for branding or just for fun. The snapback closure is very familiar and we love the way this hat looks and the value it presents.
Price: $35
For more information, click here.
Winner – Hoodies
1620 Workwear Full Tech Work Hoodie
What they said:
The Full Tech Work Hoodie combines our heavyweight fleece fabric with CORDURA reinforcements along the elbow, forearm, and kangaroo pocket to be the most durable sweatshirt in our lineup. This hoodie also features our YKK snaps, easily adjustable cuffs, and a longer fit for added comfort and protection on any job. Key features include CORDURA® 500D Stealth technology pocket inside the hoodie, Kangaroo-pouch style pocket designed to keep your tech-phone/safe and dry in inclement weather and PFC Free Durable Water Repellent finish, inherent No Melt-No Drip thermal properties of Main Fabric (note 500D Cordura® re-enforcement does not meet this standard), catch-all corners in the hoodie pocket to keep your valuables from sliding out and to hold change or screws/nails, helmet compatible hood, longer fit so the hoodie sits below the waist to keep your core warm when you are working, and YKK® Mil Spec Snaps on hood instead of drawstrings. Like all our products, 100% made in America and Guaranteed for Life.
What we say:
The 1620 Workwear Full Tech Work Hoodie features heavyweight fleece fabric reinforced with Cordura at the elbows, forearm, and kangaroo pocket. It includes a hidden tech pocket, PFC-free water-repellent finish, and YKK Mil Spec snaps instead of drawstrings. 1620 gave it a longer fit so that it stays below the waist, and the hood is large enough to support hard hats. This is going to be an excellent solution for professionals looking for a tough, functional, and protective hoodie for use in semi-harsh conditions. As a bonus, it’s also 100% made in America and includes a lifetime guarantee.
Price: $148
For more information, click here.
Winner – Jackets
BRUNT Workwear The Roughton Jacket
What they said:
The Roughton is crafted from our pre-washed BRUNT Stretch Canvas that offers a more flexible and broken-in feel than standard canvas. Lighter than a traditional work jacket, The Roughton has a hard-hat compatible hood, hidden cuffs to lock out the cold, and quilted insulation to keep you warm. Plus, it’s decked out with technical features—like our BRUNT Action Back and industry-leading DWR coating—that the old-guard styles have been missing for years.
What we say:
The Roughton canvas jacket provides a flexible and broken-in feel right out of the box. This lightweight work jacket features a hood that can fit hard-hats and interior quilted insulation for warmth. Hidden cuffs block out the cold, and a DWR coating gives you some resistance against rain. Brunt also gives wearers extra deep pockets, and we love the pre-washed, stretch-infused canvas, which should translate into a durable, comfortable solution for jobsite professionals.
Price: $139
For more information, click here.
Winner – Heated Outerwear
Milwaukee Tool M100B-213X M12™ Heated TOUGHSHELL™ Jacket
What they said:
Our M12™ Heated TOUGHSHELL™ Jacket delivers heat built to outlast. Powered by Milwaukee’s new HEXON HEAT TECHNOLOGY™, this jacket stays warmer for longer in all temperatures, delivers the fastest heat up time and offers greater heat coverage throughout the garment. Whether facing freezing outdoor temperatures or navigating spaces with minimal heat indoors, this jacket adapts to its environment to deliver effective heat in any condition.
3X more insulation combined with HEXON HEAT TECHNOLOGY™ maximizes heat retention and enhances comfort. The hidden battery pass-thru pocket allows for front or back battery placement, increasing versatility depending on the situation. With its durable 100% stretch polyester fabric and DWR finish, this MILWAUKEE® jacket is a go-to for shielding against the elements. Our Milwaukee® Heated Gear is developed in collaboration with feedback from users across the trades through continuous jobsite research.
What we say:
Heated jackets live or die by how well and how quickly they heat. The Milwaukee M12 Heated Toughshell Jacket features the company’s new Hexon Heat Technology that provides near-instant heat and allows for heat management so you can get all-day runtime. This jacket will do really well for anyone working in the trades during the winter. You get 3X more insulation combined with “analog” features like durable stretch polyester fabric and a durable water-repellent (DWR) outer layer to keep out the rain. Lastly, a hidden battery pass-thru pocket lets you use this with the standard M12 power source or the new M12 heated gear power source for even more control.
Price: $240
For more information, click here.
Winner – Safety Glasses
Bollé Safety SWIFT Safety Glasses
What they said:
Combining durability, comfort, and style, the collection includes the SWIFT and SWIFT OTG (over-the-glasses). Both create crystal-clear vision in all situations with Bollé Safety’s PLATINUM Lite anti-scratch and anti-fog coating. Engineered to meet the needs of industrial environments, the PLATINUM Lite lens coating is expertly coated on both sides of the lens to create exceptional resistance to fog build-up, all while protecting the wearer’s eyes and face with a well-balanced frame providing thin, flexible temples with side shields.
In keeping ahead of the curve with innovative style with attention to ecodesign, Bollé Safety is proud to share that both SWIFT options are crafted from recycled polycarbonate, are fully recyclable including the packaging, and are a mono-material design without any metal components to exemplify eco-friendly manufacturing without compromising quality or performance.
Offering the same technologies as the SWIFT, the SWIFT OTG provides a wider, lightweight frame made to fit comfortably over most prescription glasses while offering optimal upper, lower, and lateral protection. The sleek, contoured temples not only enhance comfort but also provide increased lateral coverage, suitable for various equipment needs.
What we say:
Bollé Safety’s Swift industrial eyewear collection offers both safety glasses and over-the-glasses (OTG) goggles at an almost unbelievably cost-effective price. The sleek-looking safety glasses come in Clear and Smoke lenses for both indoor and outdoor use and feature durable, recycled polycarbonate frames. The Swift OTG model fits right overtop prescription glasses. Lastly, both models feature a Platinum Lite anti-scratch and anti-fog coating and are fully recyclable—making this a great choice for the environment as well.
Price: $4–$5
For more information, click here.
Winner – Shirts
BRUNT Workwear The McKenna Short Sleeve Sun Shirt
What they said:
The McKenna Sun Shirt is an ultra-lightweight layer that’s crafted from a soft cotton/poly blended fabric that’s naturally moisture-wicking and quick-drying. And to keep you even cooler in the heat, we added side mesh panels for maximum ventilation. It’s the ideal layer for anyone who works outside, especially landscapers, masons, roofers, and turf managers. You get UPF 50+ sun protection, side mesh panels allow for extra ventilation, ultra-breathable and quick-drying in the heat, moisture-wicking to evaporate sweat quickly, lightweight and comfortable, and drop shoulder seams reduce abrasion and chafing.
What we say:
The Brunt Workwear McKenna Sun Shirt works well in summer weather thanks to its UPF 50+ sun protection and soft cotton/poly blend. It wicks away moisture and also dries quickly, helping you stay cool and dry. It features side mesh panels for ventilation, which makes it a great fit for landscapers, roofers, turf managers, and anyone else who works outdoors in the heat.
Price: $35
For more information, click here.
Finalist
Winner – Shoes
KEEN Utility Kenton Work Shoe
What they said:
The KEEN Utility Kenton is a retro-inspired work sneaker reinvented with lightweight protection for all-day workflow. Whether you are at the warehouse, the shop, or the jobsite, the Kenton is a work sneaker for the modern tradesman who wants to be stylish and comfortable, while still having foot protection.
With a wide toe and snug heel, the Kenton boasts a responsive KEEN.ReGEN cushioning that provides up to 50% energy return, to help keep your feet and legs feeling fresh, even during long workdays. In addition to all-day energy-returning comfort, the Kenton features low-profile protection including carbon-fiber safety toes 15% lighter than steel and a slip-resistant rubber outsole to help you stand strong through all the movement of your workday.
Other product highlights include electrical hazard (EH) or Electric Shock Resistant (ESR) footwear provides a secondary source of protection in case accidentally coming into contact with live electrical circuits, removable metatomical PU footbed, environmentally preferred premium leather from LWG-Certified Tannery, mesh liner provides breathability to help keep feet cool in warm environments, Cleansport NXT Technology for natural odor protection, heat resistant, rubber outsole rated up to 572° F / 300° C, 100% non-metallic construction for easily passing through metal detectors in highly-secured areas, and non-mutilating upper reduces the chance of marking or scratching surfaces. Made to move, the Kenton is available in several colorways as well as a mid and low option collar height option for men.
What we say:
We liked the innovative retro look of the KEEN Utility Kenton work sneakers. Often, work shoes carry the proper safety ratings but don’t have much in the way of style. Keen Utility’s lightweight Kenton work shoe features carbon-fiber safety toes that are 15% lighter than steel, a slip-resistant rubber outsole, and KEEN.ReGEN cushioning that we’ve found excellent when your job involves standing on your feet all day. Of course, you also get electrical hazard protection, a breathable mesh lining, and a heat-resistant outsole. Comfortable shoes that look good and protect you on the job? Yes, please!
Price: $115
For more information, click here.
Winner – Safety Vests
Diamondback Vests 701 Vest with Twiceme
What they said:
With the introduction of Diamondback’s 701 Vest with Twiceme, users extend beyond seasoned professionals to include everyday tradespeople. This collaboration signifies the joint commitment to ensuring safety and security for all individuals in the construction industry. It enhances the overall well-being of all professionals and tradespeople and empowers them to work confidently and securely in any environment.
Twiceme’s HTH technology, seamlessly integrated into the Diamondback 701 Vest, offers comprehensive protection before and after an incident. Before an incident, Twiceme supports prevention by monitoring equipment health via regular notifications and guidance on how to check the health of one’s equipment, which will ultimately lead to more informed and safe usage. After an incident, Twiceme supports recovery with time-saving information. For recovery, the Medical ID feature allows first responders to quickly access critical medical information in the event of an accident and if the worker is incapacitated.
Crafted from military-grade 1000 denier Nylon mesh, this vest boasts 3M reflective strips and heat-sealed loops for securing Diamondback accessories. Its fully modular design allows users to customize pouch and tool attachments on the torso and waist, ensuring optimal comfort and functionality on the job.
For added comfort and safety, the 701 features two bands of heavy-duty elastic at the back that absorb shock and allow easy access to safety harness connection points. The waist belt adjusts in the rear, eliminating a bulky buckle that could damage cabinets or other surfaces – ideal for carpenters and trim installers. Three adjustment straps under each arm ensure a comfortable fit for most users. When the workday’s done, a hanging loop at the top lets you easily store your vest.
What we say:
The Diamondback 701 Vest with Twiceme offers an innovative approach to jobsite safety by combining durable construction gear with advanced safety technology. The vest, crafted from military-grade nylon and featuring modular storage, integrates Twiceme’s HTH Technology. This lets bystanders access critical medical information and alert emergency contacts using NFC. It ensures rapid response in the event of emergencies. Ideal for construction professionals, this vest enhances both safety and functionality on the job while providing comfort and high visibility.
Price: $210
For more information, click here.
Winner – Work Pants/Shorts
1620 Workwear Double Knee Utility Pant 2.0
What they said:
The Double Knee Utility Pant 2.0 is designed to withstand even the toughest environments with ergonomically mapped knee reinforcements and our proprietary Stretch NYCO fabric. This pant, like all our workwear, is 100% made in America and is guaranteed for life. Built to be the most durable double knee utility work pant on the market, these are 10x more abrasion resistant and can last up to 5x longer than cotton duck.
Key features include a stealth opening at bottom of reinforcement to fit most commercial knee pads, fully treated with a PFC free DWR coating for water repellency in foul weather environments, gusseted crotch, articulated knees, 11 pockets, hammer loops on upper right and left thighs, and a dual purpose knife clip area that also reduces any chance of the pocket tearing. Available in regular and slim fit.
What we say:
1620 Workwear’s Double Knee Utility Pant 2.0 features reinforced knees and a proprietary Stretch NYCO fabric. The result is pants that are around 10x more abrasion resistant and which last as much as 5x longer than cotton duck. We can see this doing really well for drywallers, tiling professionals, and anyone who encounters environments that wreak havoc on your knees and pant legs. Incorporating a stealth knee pad slot, you can add any of many aftermarket kneepads to make it far easier to spend time on your knees when dealing with tile, plumbing, or similar jobs. A PFC-free durable water repellent (DWR) coating offers water resistance, and they include functional pockets for your mobile phone, pencils, and more. Lastly, these pants are made in America and are backed by a lifetime guarantee.
Price: $198
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